Hardware and FPGA Designer

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Position Title: Hardware and FPGA Designer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: 20th of March 2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established in 195

• It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and employs over 2,500 staff members from more than 100 countries. CERN is renowned for its groundbreaking research in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to explore the fundamental structure of the universe. The organization operates in multiple countries and collaborates with numerous international institutions, making it a hub for scientific innovation and discovery.

Job Overview:
The position of Hardware and FPGA Designer at CERN involves working within the Controls Electronics and Mechatronics Group, focusing on the design and development of critical control hardware for CERN's accelerator complex. The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping cutting-edge hardware solutions, particularly for the High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) and future accelerator projects. This role requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, as the engineer will be expected to bring prototypes to life, ensuring that the hardware meets the rigorous demands of CERN's scientific objectives. The position offers the opportunity to work on innovative projects, such as the Distributed I/O Tier (DI/OT) and the Sensors Acquisition and Motion Control system (SAMbuCa), which are essential for the operation of advanced scientific equipment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Hardware Designer Engineer, the individual will engage in various tasks, including:

• Participating in the design evolution of hardware modules for the DI/OT and SAMbuCa projects, which includes developing components like the System Board and PXIe FMC Carrier based on Xilinx Zynq MPSoC.
• Contributing to the hardware designs for the new White Rabbit-based accelerator timing system.
• Overseeing the development and testing of prototypes and series productions, ensuring they meet performance and safety standards.
• Conducting radiation and burn-in test campaigns to validate hardware modules, ensuring their reliability in challenging environments.
• Supporting users in the adoption and deployment of hardware modules, providing guidance and troubleshooting assistance.
• Developing HDL designs for FPGAs and System-On-Chip technologies, particularly focusing on Xilinx MPSoC.
• Documenting and presenting work to stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of technical details and project progress.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or PhD in Electronics Engineering or a related field, or have equivalent relevant experience. Additionally, they should demonstrate proficiency in the schematics and layout design of complex analog-digital hardware modules, including FPGA and high-speed transceivers. Hands-on experience with soldering and diagnosing electronic circuit issues is essential. Familiarity with EDA tools such as Altium or Kicad is required, along with experience in simulating digital and analog electronic circuits and power electronics. Knowledge of FPGA design targeting Xilinx MPSoC and Microchip Igloo2 families is also necessary, as is the ability to develop testbenches for FPGA designs.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or PhD in Electronics Engineering or a closely related field. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience may also be considered. A strong foundation in electronics principles, circuit design, and hardware development is crucial for success in this role.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in the design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics, as well as the design and simulation of digital and analog electronic circuits. Candidates should have a proven track record in testing and measuring electronic circuits, with specific experience in high-speed transceivers and DDR memories. Experience with radiation effects on electronics and EMC testing is considered an asset, as is familiarity with the development of synchronization systems and Python scripting for automating tasks and hardware tests.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, as it is the primary language used in professional contexts at CERN. Additionally, candidates should be willing to learn French, which is beneficial for communication within the organization and the local community.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of applying for an indefinite position subject to certain conditions. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the role may require a valid driving license. The successful candidate should be prepared to work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as needed by the organization. Stand-by duty may also be required. The job grade for this position is 6-7, and the job reference is BE-CEM-EDL-2025-27-LD.